Suit Sizing

[AndritVoor]

'Ello!
It's been a while that I haven't been on, due to work and school, but its nice to be back
Anyhow, I'm looking for a suit to wear to the 40th anniversary of the University group that I'm serving as president of this year. I think I've located something at Macy's, an Alfani slim fit suit that's on sale until Tuesday. I'm just having a slight problem with sizing. I was recently measured as a 38s at Men's Wearhouse, though my last suit was a 36s. I like the cut of the suit at Macy's, but the 38s is just a tad too big and hangs a little loose, while the 36s a tighter fit (it's a slim fit suit), but is just on the edge. If my chest grows, I'm not sure how the fit would change.
Does anyone have any wise words of advice?

Thanks!

 

[gaseousclay]

loose and baggy isn't a good look on a suit but you don't want something that's too tight either. do you have a good tailor in your town that can measure you? I have a strong dislike for places like Men's Wearhouse and would take anything they say with a grain of salt. I would even say to avoid Macy's altogether and find yourself a Nordstrom's Rack, Off Fifth Outlet or Last Call by Neiman Marcus - you can find quality suits at a discount. I don't know what you're budget is but regardless of the suit you find, you'll still need to get it tailored.

 

[Austin]

The suit can be altered. It can be let out if you gain weight. It should not be a problem.

 

[Doc4]

I'd avoid the advice of MW ... most customers from MW (and other low-level suit sellers) get sold suits that are too big. So they tell you that you are a 38 ... and it feels too big ...

That said, every suit is cut differently. Some makers will fit you in a 36, some in a 38, and some won't fit you at all. But you seem to be alert to this already, which is good.

Don't expect a suit to fit you, accordian-like, if you gain or lose a significant amount of weight/bulk. Minor changes can be made, yes, but major alterations either way are asking for problems. Buy what fits you now ... if your body changes a lot, buy a new suit that fits your new look.